Ofqual is proposing additional, statutory guidance for Awarding Organisations (AOs) to help the design and development of accessible assessments including exams.

Decisions made at the assessment design and development stages can result in some learners being prevented from fully demonstrating their knowledge, skills and understanding. Types of learners that Ofqual considers to be unfairly disadvantaged by irrelevant features in assessment include deaf learners, learners whose first language is not English and learners with learning difficulties.

The guidance, currently out for consultation, includes:

• Practices to help AOs make their assessments as accessible as possible including alternative formats and assistive technology
• How to use accessible language within an accessible layout
• How to use source material, context, images and colour in assessments
• How to design and develop assessments in a way that facilitates Reasonable Adjustments.